Electrically activated substance and method for making the same

ABSTRACT

A method for providing cosmetic/medical therapy includes the steps of electrically activating a substance and administering the electrically activated substance to a subject. Electrical activation of the substance includes flowing alternating current through an electrolyte so as to change a physical property thereof.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to cosmetic/medicaltherapy and more particularly to an electrically activated substance foruse in such therapy.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The use of transcutaneous electrotherapy to treatcosmetic/medical conditions is well known. Transcutaneous electrotherapyinvolves the passage of an electrical current from one electrode toanother, such that the therapeutic current is caused to pass directlythrough a target tissue of the patient. Exemplary devices used in theperformance of transcutaneous electrotherapy are provided in U.S. Pat.Nos. 397,474; 3,794,022; 4,180,079; 4,446,870; 5,058,605; in FrenchPatent 2621-827-A; and European Patent Application EP-377-057-A.

[0003] Although the use of transcutaneous electrotherapy has provenbeneficial, such contemporary cosmetic/medical therapy suffers frominherent disadvantages. For example, during transcutaneouselectrotherapy electrical current passes through the target tissue ofthe patient. Many patients may find this painful or otherwiseundesirable. Further, transcutaneous electrotherapy is generally notself-administrable, and therefore generally requires the presence of askilled operator. The administration of transcutaneous electrotherapyalso tends to be costly.

[0004] In view of the foregoing, it is desirable to provide an effectivealternative to transcutaneous electrotherapy wherein electric current isnot caused to flow through the treated tissue of the patient, which isself-administrable and which is comparatively inexpensive.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention specifically addresses and alleviates theabove-mentioned deficiencies associated with the prior art. Moreparticularly, the present invention comprises a method for providingcosmetic/medical therapy, the method comprising the steps ofelectrically activating a substance and administering the electricallyactivated substance to a subject. Administering the electricallyactivated substance to the subject provides a cosmetic/medical benefitto the subject.

[0006] Although, the subject as described herein, is a human being,those skilled in the art will appreciate that the methodology of thepresent invention may be practiced upon various different animals. Thus,the use of a human being in this application is by way of example onlyand not by way of limitation.

[0007] The electrically activated substance is applied topically totreat skin problems such as wrinkles, cuts, abrasions, etc. Theelectrically activated substance may also be ingested, so as to treatinternal medical conditions, where indicated.

[0008] According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention,the electrically activated substance comprises water, preferablydistilled water. However, as those skilled in the art will appreciate,various other substances, particularly those comprised of simplemolecules, may likewise be utilized.

[0009] The step of electrically activating the substance comprisesapplying an electrical signal to the substance. According to thepreferred embodiment of the present invention, an alternating currentsignal, preferably having a generally symmetric waveform, is utilized.Thus, for example, a sinusoidal waveform, a square waveform, and atriangular waveform are suitable. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that various other generally symmetric waveforms are likewisesuitable.

[0010] The electrical signal preferably comprises an alternating currentsignal having a frequency of between approximately 5 or 10 KHz andapproximately 1 MHz, preferably between approximately 50 KHz andapproximately 100 KHz. According to the preferred embodiment of thepresent invention, the frequency of the electrical signal is variedwithin a frequency range of approximately 50 KHz to 100 KHz.

[0011] Preferably, the alternating current has approximately zero directcurrent bias. In order to mitigate direct current bias, the electricalsignal is preferably applied to the substance via a capacitor-resistornetwork. Alternatively, the electrical signal is applied to thesubstance via an isolation transformer.

[0012] The electrical signal preferably has a voltage of betweenapproximately 50 volts rms and approximately 150 volts rms.

[0013] The electrical signal is applied to the substance to beelectrically activated via at least one pair of electrodes. As thoseskilled in the art will appreciate, a plurality of pairs of electrodesmay be utilized, if desired. The electrodes are preferably comprised ofeither a biologically inert, non-reactive metal or a non-metallicmaterial having a low atomic number. For example, it has been found thatgold, carbon 12, and graphite-carbon loaded thermo-plastic material aresuitable.

[0014] When distilled water is to be electrically activated, then asubstance is added to the water to form an electrolyte therefrom, so asto facilitate current flow therethrough. According to the preferredembodiment of the present invention, sodium chloride (table salt) isutilized to form an electrolyte from distilled water.

[0015] It has also been found that tap water is typically suitable anddoes not generally require the addition of any other substance thereto.

[0016] According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention,the substance, e.g., sodium chloride, is added to the distilled waterwhile monitoring current flow therethrough, until the desired current isobtained.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention,approximately 1 amp rms of current is caused to flow through thesubstance being electrically activated. Typically, a voltage ofapproximately 100 volts rms is required to effect a current of 1 amprms. It has been found that currents as low as 1 milliamp may be used,if desired. Preferably, at least 10 milliwatts of power per milliliterof substance as utilized. Those skilled in the art will appreciate thatthe voltage required to effect the desired current is dependant upon theconductivity of the substance being electrically activated. Theelectrodes preferably have a resistance below 500 ohms per squarecentimeter, preferably below 50 ohms per square centimeter.

[0018] When administered topically, approximately 0.05 ml of theelectrically activated substance is applied per square centimeter oftreatment area. The electrically activated substance is preferablyadministered 3 to 6 times with approximately 1 to 4 days betweenadministrations.

[0019] Such topical application of the electrically activated substanceof the present invention has been found to be effective in mitigatingwrinkles on human skin.

[0020] When taken orally, approximately 2 ml of the electricallyactivated substance is preferably ingested per day for approximately 6weeks.

[0021] These, as well as other advantages of the present invention willbe more apparent from the following description and drawings. It isunderstood that changes in the specific structure shown and describedmay be made within the scope of the claims without departing from thespirit of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022]FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a variable frequency currentsource being utilized to electrically charge a liquid contained within abeaker;

[0023]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a first alternativeconfiguration of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

[0024]FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a second alternativeconfiguration of the apparatus of FIG. 1; and

[0025]FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing the steps involved in the practiceof the method for forming an electrically charged substance, accordingto the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0026] The detailed description set forth below in connection with theappended drawings is intended as description of the presently preferredembodiment of the invention and is not intended to represent the onlyform in which the present invention may be constructed or utilized. Thedescription sets forth the functions and the sequence of steps forconstructing and operating the invention in connection with theillustrated embodiment. It is to be understood, however, that the sameor equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by differentembodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spiritand scope of the invention.

[0027] The electrically activated substance and method for making thesame of the present invention are illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 of thedrawings which depict a presently preferred embodiment thereof.

[0028] Referring now to FIG. 1, according to the present invention avariable frequency current source 10 is electrically connected, viawires 12 to probes or electrodes 14 which are at least partiallyimmersed within the substance 18 to be electrically activated, which iscontained within beaker 16.

[0029] The variable frequency current source 10 preferably comprises thevariable frequency current source having an output frequency range fromapproximately 10 KHz to approximately 1 MHz, having a voltage outputfrom approximately 50 volts rms to 150 volts rms, and having a maximumcurrent output in excess of 1 amp rms.

[0030] According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention,the variable frequency current source 10 provides an alternating currentoutput having substantially 0 direct current bias.

[0031] The variable frequency current source 10 is capable of providinga generally symmetric waveform, such as a sinusoidal waveform, a squarewaveform, and/or a triangular waveform. As those skilled in the art willappreciate, various other generally symmetrical alternating currentwaveforms are likewise suitable.

[0032] According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention,the frequency output of the variable frequency current source 10 iscapable of being swept or automatically varied between a minimum andmaximum frequency. Alternatively, the variable frequency current source10 is capable of being manually swept in frequency.

[0033] The wires 12 preferably comprise copper wires having a currentrating sufficient to carry the required current, e.g., 1 amp rms,without excessive heating.

[0034] Each electrode 14 is preferably comprised of a chemically andbiologically inert material, preferably a non-reactive metal such asgold, or alternatively, a non-metal having a low atomic number. It isbelieved that it is not desirable to have ions form from the substanceof the electrodes. For example, if lead electrodes are utilized, it hasbeen found that lead ions permeate the substance being electricallyactivated, potentially resulting in undesirable contamination of themedium and potential poisoning of the patient to whom the electricallyactivated substance is administered. Although aluminum and copperelectrodes may be suitable in some applications, they are generallythought to be undesirable.

[0035] Carbon 12 has been found to be suitable for the construction ofelectrodes according to the present invention. More particularly, carbonelectrodes may be formed utilizing contemporary plastic injectionmolding techniques wherein a graphite-carbon loaded thermoplasticmaterial, such as nylon, is injected into the molds.

[0036] Typical dimensions for the electrodes 14 are 3 mm thick, 20 mmwide, and 10 cm long. However, as those skilled in the art willappreciate, various different dimensions and cross-sectionalconfigurations, e.g., round, oval, square, triangular, etc., maylikewise be suitable. According to the preferred embodiment of thepresent invention, the electrical resistance of the finished electrodesis preferably less than 500 ohms/cm², preferably less than 50 ohms/cm².

[0037] Further, according to the preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, the two electrodes are positioned several centimeters apartin a 250 ml container, e.g., a beaker. The container is formed of anon-metallic material, such as glass. Thus, as described herein, themethod for electrically activating a substance is preferably practicedutilizing approximately 200 ml of the substance at a time. Those skilledin the art will appreciate that the quantity of substance electricallyactivated may be varied by varying the dimensions of the container,electrodes, and by varying the strength of the electrical signalappropriately.

[0038] Preferably, current flow through the substance being electricallyactivated 18 is monitored as an electrolytic substance is added theretoso as to form an electrolyte. For example, when water is beingelectrically activated, then sodium chloride is added to the water, soas to form an electrolyte. As the sodium chloride is added to the water,current flow through the water is monitored until the desired currentflow is achieved, thereby indicating that sufficient sodium chloride hasbeen added to the water.

[0039] According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention,approximately 1 amp rms of current is caused to flow through thesubstance being electrically activated while a voltage of approximately100 volts rms is applied thereto. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that various different voltage and amperage levels arelikewise suitable.

[0040] Typically, current is caused to flow through the substance beingelectrically activated 18 until small gas bubbles are formed upon theelectrodes. This typically takes approximately 4 to 8 hours. When smallgas bubbles are observed on the electrodes, then the substance has beenfully electrically activated and is ready to use.

[0041] The degree to which the substance is electrically activated, andthus the effectiveness thereof in cosmetic/medical therapy, is directlyrelated to the voltage applied to the electrodes, the spacing of theelectrodes, the current caused to flow between the electrodes, and, tosome extent, the length of time that the current is applied. Currentmust be caused to flow between the electrodes for a minimum of at least10 minutes before any usable results are typically obtained. It isthought that the application of current for a time period in excess of 8hours produces little additional effectiveness of the electricallyactivated substance.

[0042] The electrically activated substance is typically active for onlya limited amount of time after current flow therethrough has ceased. Theelectrically activated substance is thought to be most effective ifutilized within approximately 4 hours after its production. Theelectrically activated substance is thought to be somewhat effective forup to 4 days after its production. It is believed that the decay in theeffectiveness of the electrically activated substance is logarithmic innature, with more than half of the effectiveness thereof lost withinapproximately 24 hours.

[0043] The specified values for the applied voltage, duration, andconductivity of the medium may be varied, as desired. Indeed, areduction in the effectiveness of the electrically activated substancemay be compensated for by varying one or the other of the productionparameters.

[0044] A lower voltage may be utilized if additional sodium chloride isadded to the solution. However, if too much sodium chloride is added,then the solution may become less bio-compatible. Conversely, if lesssodium chloride is utilized, then a higher voltage is necessary toobtain sufficient current flow through the substance. Inadequate currentflow through the substance results in substantially reducedeffectiveness of the electrically activated substance.

[0045] It is thought that the electrically activated substance of thepresent invention provides beneficial cosmetic/medical effects bystimulating the well known current of injury commonly associated withtissue trauma. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, when tissueis injured, a small electric current is generated. This current is aresult of a voltage producing charge imbalance which occurs whenportions of previously connected tissue are disconnected from oneanother, such as occurs if a bone is broken or skin is torn. Thisvoltage causes a small amount of current, e.g., electrons or ions, toflow from one point to another within the tissue. Further disclosure ofthis effect can be found in The Body Electric, by Robert Becker, M. D.,among others.

[0046] The tissue disconnection of an injury thus upsets the electricalbalance of the biological circuit, thereby resulting in the productionof a very small current, typically on the order of nanoamps or less. Thepresence of this electric current is instrumental in the formation ofblastema, which are a collection of primitive, unformed cells, whichgather at an entry site and later developed into replacement tissue.

[0047] It is thought that the electrically activated substance of thepresent invention effects in biological tissue a disruptive electricalimbalance, similar to that which occurs when a mechanical strain to thetissue has occurred. This electrical imbalance then triggers acceleratedmetabolic activity in the treatment area. Blood flow accelerates whilecellular metabolic activity and interactions increase. Capillariesdilate and there is increased activity toward restored homeostasis. Inthis process, toxins, free radicals, metabolic waste products, andunused remnant material may be re-formed or flushed away.

[0048] It is thought that the electrically activated substance of thepresent invention should not be applied to fresh injury sites, since itmay interfere with the timing and development of the natural current ofinjury, thereby inhibiting the healing process. However, once the injuryhas stabilized, the electrically activated substance of the presentinvention may be applied thereto so as to enhance or re-activate thehealing process.

[0049] One exemplary use of the electrically activated substance of thepresent invention is the removal of skin wrinkles. For example, facialwrinkles may be treated with electrically activated water. Preferably,the water is activated with a frequency of between approximately 50 KHzand 100 KHz. It has been found that such electrically activated water isparticularly beneficial to the skin and other soft tissue. Suchelectrically activated water is preferably spritzed or dabbed onto theskin for topical application thereto. The typical dose rate isapproximately 0.05 ml/cm² of treatment area. Mitigation of skin wrinklestypically occurs beginning within approximately 30 minutes, with theresults being clearly visible.

[0050] Blood flow and metabolic activity accelerates and has been foundto peak within approximately 45 minutes after the application of theelectrically activated substance of the present invention. After thisperiod of increased blood flow and accelerated metabolism, the skin andtissue enters a recovery phase wherein the cellular structure thereof isrebuilt. Skin begins to draw together, getting tighter, thicker, andcausing wrinkles to shrink. Additional collagen forms at the site oftreatment.

[0051] This recovery phase typically has a duration of approximately 1to 4 days. After 4 days, approximately all such recovery has occurred.At the end of the recovery phase, another treatment may be applied. Ithas been found that the recovery phase must be complete before asubsequent treatment, so as to avoid overwhelming the responsemechanism.

[0052] It is believed that the improvements obtained via the use of thepresent invention are essentially permanent in nature. That is, it isbelieved that new wrinkles will take almost as long to form as theoriginal ones did.

[0053] It has been found that approximately 6 such treatment sessionsare typically required for the removal of wrinkles. After the firsttreatment session, at least some, occasionally most or all of the fineline facial wrinkles of 1 mm or less in size are either reduced in sizeor eliminated altogether. After 3 to 4 treatment sessions, wrinkles ofup to 4 mm in size are typically substantially reduced. Afterapproximately 6 treatment sessions, many, if not most or all of thefacial wrinkles, including large wrinkles of the forehead are typicallysubstantially eliminated. Typically, 6 treatment sessions, at onesession per week for 6 weeks, are utilized. The more degenerated theskin, the more dramatic the results are. Acne is frequently cleared inthe process due to increased blood flow. Thus, the general result isrenewed skin or tissue, without surgery, grafting, patchwork,dermabrasion, laser vaporization, or other invasive or mechanicaltechniques.

[0054] As a result of such treatments, enhanced elastin and collagensupport is provided and typical age sagging is reduced due to theshrinking of the skin by as much as ten to twenty percent.

[0055] It has also been found that therapeutic medical benefits may beobtained if the medium is ingested. When taken orally, the dose rate ispreferably comparatively small, approximately 2 ml per day for 6 weeks.It is thought that such therapy is particularly beneficial for heart andcirculatory problems.

[0056] To further appreciate the unique advantages of this process,consider that this technique has been also found at least partiallyeffective in the conversion of surgical scar tissue from a typicallynecrid white fibrous collagen material back into normal healthy pinkskin with nerve sensitivity, blood vessels, and even hair follicles.These results may be obtained with administration of a daily tosemi-daily topical application, typically over a 6 month period. As thecollagen is initially resistant to absorbing the medium, a vasodilatoradditive is effective in speeding results by increasing penetration ofthe medium.

[0057] Because the electrically activated substance of the presentinvention functions as a transfer agent or medium, at no time is thereany current flow from the variable frequency current source throughbiological tissue. Thus, there is no chance of burns, thereby enhancingthe safety of such treatment. Further, there is no muscle contraction ornerve impulse firing as a result of using the electrically activatedsubstance of the present invention, as is common during contemporarytranscutaneous electrotherapy.

[0058] Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, if the variable frequency currentsource 10 does not provide approximately 0 direct current bias, then theoutput thereof can be processed so as to mitigate direct current bias.

[0059] With particular reference to FIG. 2, a resistor-capacitor network22 filters the output of the variable frequency current source 10, so asto mitigate direct current bias. Such a resistor-capacitor networkcomprises at least one capacitor in series with the substance beingelectrically activated and at least one resistor in parallel therewith.The resistor-capacitor network 22 functions according to well knownprinciples to mitigate the presence of DC bias in the substance beingelectrically charged. Those skilled in the art will appreciate thatvarious other types of filters may be utilized. For example, a capacitorinductor network may be utilized.

[0060] With particular reference to FIG. 3, an isolation transformer 24isolates the substance 18 to be electrically charged from direct currentbias present in the output of the variable frequency current source 10.

[0061] In any instance, when the variable frequency current source 10does not include a means for monitoring current flow through thesubstance 18 being electrically activated, then such means is preferablyincluded in the electrical path of the electrodes 14. For example, anamp meter 20 may be inserted in line or applied inductively to one ofthe wires 12 which provide an electrical pathway for the current whichtravels between the electrodes 14. Alternatively, an oscilloscope may beutilized to monitor current flow between the electrodes 14.

[0062] Referring now to FIG. 4, the method for forming an electricallyactivated substance of the present invention generally comprisesproviding distilled water 30, adding sodium chloride to the distilledwater while monitoring current flow between the electrodes 32, applyingalternating current to the electrodes 34, and, administering theelectrically activated substance 36, preferably within four hours afterthe electrical activation thereof.

[0063] The electrically activated substance is only administered afterfirst discontinuing the application of current thereto. In this manner,the electric current can be applied to an intermediate material, (i.e.,the electrically activated substance), rather than directly to a person.Thus, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, a substantial amountof power may be applied to the electrically activated substance ratherthan directly to a person. Indeed, according to the preferred embodimentof the present invention, much more power, (e.g., approximately 100watts), can applied to the electrically activated substance than couldbe tolerated by a human being.

[0064] The minimum amount of power applied to the substance duringelectrical activation thereof must be sufficient to overcome theactivation decay rate of the substance. The more electrical powerapplied to the substance, the slower the rate at which the electricallyactivated substance's effectiveness decays. It has been found that theapplication of approximately 100 watts of electrical power to waterresults in an acceptable decay rate, as discussed in detail above.

[0065] Due to the relatively large amount of power used to electricallyactivate the water, a relatively high frequency is used. In this way,premature electrolysis (gassing) of the water is avoided. The highfrequency also accelerates electron agitation in the medium. The pHbalance of the medium is essentially unchanged.

[0066] Non-distilled or tap water or other bio-compatible compounds,including tissue, may be utilized instead of distilled water. It hasbeen found that tap water is frequently suitable for use in the practiceof the present invention. However, as those skilled in the art willappreciate, the types and amounts of impurities found in tap water varyconsiderably from one location to another. Thus, if an accurate analysisof the tap water to be utilized is not available, then the effectivenessthereof must be determined by trial and error.

[0067] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various otherelectrolyte forming substances, other than sodium chloride are likewisesuitable.

[0068] The application of alternating current 34 to the substance to beelectrically charged preferably takes place for a duration ofapproximately 4 to 8 hours. When small gas bubbles appear on theelectrodes, then the current has been applied for a sufficient length oftime.

[0069] The electrically activated substance is created using the powerlevels, frequencies, current densities, and dosage quantities describedherein, or parameters similar to those described herein. When thesubstance is produced in this manner, it takes on unique properties(possibly on an atomic level), which make it particularly well suitedfor the practice of the present invention.

[0070] It is understood that the exemplary electrically activatedsubstance and method for making the same described herein and shown inthe drawings represents only a presently preferred embodiment of theinvention. Indeed, various modifications and additions may be made tosuch embodiment without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention. For example, various different sizes, shapes, andconfigurations of the container, the electrodes, and the source ofalternating current are contemplated. Further, as those skilled in theart will appreciate, the use of water as the electrically activatedsubstance is by way of example only, not by way of limitation. Indeed,it is also anticipated that gases, as well as liquids, may beelectrically activated according to the present invention. Electricallyactivated gases may find particular application in the treatment ofpulmonary disorders.

[0071] Thus, these and other modifications and additions may be obviousto those skilled in the art and may be implemented to adapt the presentinvention for use in a variety of different applications.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for providing cosmetic/medical therapy,said method comprising the steps of: a) electrically activating asubstance; b) administering the electrically activated substance to asubject; and c) wherein administering the electrically activatedsubstance to the subject provides a cosmetic/medical benefit to thesubject.
 2. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the subjectcomprises a human being.
 3. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein thestep of administering the electrically activated substance comprisesapplying the electrically activated substance topically.
 4. The methodas recited in claim 1 wherein the step of administering the electricallyactivated substance comprises administering the electrically activatedsubstance orally.
 5. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the stepof electrically activating a substance comprises electrically activatingwater.
 6. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the step ofadministering the electrically activated substance comprises topicalapplication of approximately 0.05 milliliter of the electricallyactivated substance per square centimeter of treatment area.
 7. Themethod as recited in claim 6 wherein the step of administering theelectrically activated substance comprises administering theelectrically activated substance three (3) to six (6) times with one (1)to four (4) days between administrations.
 8. The method as recited inclaim 1 wherein the step of administering the electrically activatedsubstance comprises ingesting approximately 2 millimeters of theelectrically activated substance per day for approximately six (6)weeks.
 9. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein the step ofadministering the electrically activated substance comprises applyingthe electrically activated substance to wrinkled skin.
 10. The method asrecited in claim 1 wherein the step of electrically activating asubstance comprises flowing alternating current through the substance,the alternating current having a frequency greater than approximately 5KHz and a current of at least 1 milliamp.
 11. The method as recited inclaim 1 wherein the steps of electrically activating a substancecomprises flowing alternating current through the substance, thealternating current having a frequency greater than approximately 5 KHzand a power of at least 10 milliwatts per milliliter.
 12. A method forelectrically activating a substance, the method comprising the steps of:a) providing a current conducting fluid; b) flowing alternating currentthrough the current conducting fluid; and c) wherein flowing alternatingcurrent through the current conducting fluid changes a physical propertythereof.
 13. The method as recited in claim 12 wherein the step ofproviding a current conducting fluid comprises providing a fluidcontaining an electrolyte.
 14. The method as recited in claim 12 whereinthe step of providing a current conducting fluid comprises providingwater.
 15. The method as recited in claim 12 wherein the step ofproviding a current conducting fluid comprises providing water havingsodium chloride dissolved therein.
 16. The method as recited in claim 12wherein the step of flowing alternating current through the currentconducting fluid comprises flowing alternating current having agenerally symmetric waveform through the current conducting fluid. 17.The method as recited in claim 12 wherein the step of flowingalternating current through the current conducting fluid comprisesflowing alternating current having a component between approximately 10KHz and approximately 1 MHz through the current conducting fluid. 18.The method as recited in claim 12 wherein the step of flowingalternating current through the current conducting fluid comprisingflowing alternating current having a component between approximately 50KHz and approximately 100 KHz through the current conducting fluid. 19.The method as recited in claim 12 wherein the step of flowingalternating current through the current conducting fluid comprisesflowing alternating current which varies in frequency within a frequencyrange of approximately 50 KHz to approximately 100 KHz through thecurrent conducting fluid.
 20. The method as recited in claim 12 whereinthe step of flowing alternating current through the current conductingfluid comprises flowing current having a generally sinusoidal currentthrough the current conducting fluid.
 21. The method as recited in claim12 wherein the step of flowing alternating current through the currentconducting fluid comprises flowing current having a generally squarecurrent through the current conducting fluid.
 22. The method as recitedin claim 12 wherein the step of flowing alternating current through thecurrent conducting fluid comprises flowing current having a generallytriangular current through the current conducting fluid.
 23. The methodas recited in claim 12 wherein the step of flowing alternating currentthrough the current conducting fluid comprises applying a voltage ofbetween approximately 50 volts and approximately 150 volts across thecurrent conducting fluid.
 24. The method as recited in claim 12 whereinthe step of flowing alternating current through the current conductingfluid comprises flowing alternating current having approximately zerodirect current bias through the current conducting fluid.
 25. The methodas recited in claim 12 wherein the step of flowing alternating currentthrough the current conducting fluid comprises flowing the alternatingcurrent through the current conducting fluid via a capacitor-resistornetwork.
 26. The method as recited in claim 12 wherein the step offlowing alternating current through the current conducting fluidcomprises flowing the alternating current through the current conductingfluid via a isolation transformer.
 27. The method as recited in claim12, wherein the step of flowing alternating current through the currentconducting fluid comprises flowing alternating current through thecurrent conducting fluid via at least one pair of electrodes.
 28. Themethod as recited in claim 12, wherein the step of flowing alternatingcurrent through the current conducting fluid comprises flowing thealternating current through the current conducting fluid via at leastone pair of electrodes, the electrodes comprising a material selectedfrom a group consisting of: a) a biologically inner, non-reactive metal;and b) a non-metallic material having a low atomic number.
 29. Themethod as recited in claim 12, wherein the step of flowing alternatingcurrent through the current conducting fluid comprising flowingalternating current through the current conducting fluid via at leastone pair of electrodes, the electrodes comprising a material selectedfrom the group consisting of: a) gold; b) carbon 12; and c) agraphite-carbon loaded thermo-plastic material.
 30. The method asrecited in claim 12, wherein the step of flowing alternating currentthrough the current conducting fluid comprises flowing alternatingcurrent through the current conducting fluid via electrodes having aresistance below 500 ohms per square centimeter.
 31. The method asrecited in claim 12, wherein the step of flowing alternating currentthrough the current conducting fluid comprises flowing alternatingcurrent through the current conducting fluid via electrodes having aresistance below 50 ohms per square centimeter.
 32. The method asrecited in claim 12, wherein the step of providing a current conductingfluid comprises adding sodium chloride to water.
 33. The method asrecited in claim 12, wherein the step of providing a current conductingfluid comprises adding sodium chloride to water while monitoring currentflow therethrough, the desired concentration of sodium chloride withinthe water being indicated by a predetermined current therethrough. 34.The method as recited in claim 12 wherein the step of flowingalternating current through current conducting fluid comprises flowingalternating current through the fluid for between approximately 4 andapproximately 8 hours.
 35. The method as recited in claim 12, whereinthe step of flowing alternating current through the current conductingfluid comprises flowing alternating current through the fluid untilbubbles form upon electrodes within the current conduction fluid.
 36. Anelectrically activated substance made according to a method comprisingthe steps of: a) providing a current conducting fluid; b) flowingalternating current through the current conducting fluid; and c) whereinflowing alternating current through the current conducting fluid changesa physical property thereof.
 37. An apparatus for making an electricallyactivated substance, the apparatus comprising: a) a container forcontaining a current conducting fluid; b) a source alternating current;c) conductive conduit for providing an electrical path for thealternating current from the source thereof to the container such thatalternating current flows through the current conducting fluid.
 38. Amethod for providing cosmetic/medical benefits associated withelectrotherapy, said method comprising the steps of: a) electricallyactivating a substance by applying alternating current thereto; b)discontinuing the application of current to the substance; and c)administering the electrically activated substance to a subject.